Liveryman James Hudson participating in charity bike ride

Liveryman James Hudson, commercial director at Gallery Direct, is preparing for a 400km, four-day charity bike ride organised by Help for Heroes.

The Big Battlefield Bike Ride will take place from 24-29 June, and will commemorate the 80th anniversary of D-Day,  and Armed Forces Day.

James has signed up for the ride and has launched a fundraising campaign aiming to raise £3,000 for organiser, Help for Heroes.

James said: “I will be paying all my own travel costs and therefore 100% of the donations that I receive will go directly to the charity. I’m really excited about the challenge and looking forward to getting on my bike for the French tour.”

The ride starts in Sainte-Mere-Eglise in northern France, stopping at to D-Day beaches Omaha, Gold and Juno. It then follows the path of British expeditionary forces by exploring Bayeux, Lisieux and Bernay, concluding in Paris on Armed Forces Day.

“I was privileged to be part of the 5th Battalion Royal Green Jackets Reserves for seven years,” continues James, “and so had a small insight into the life of the regular army and realise the struggles some soldiers have after leaving service.

“And, as many will know, the 2nd Rifles Battalion is the military affiliation of The Furniture Makers’ Company, our industry livery company and charity, and where I was in the livery, so the military has a strong link to myself and the furniture industry. This is an ideal opportunity to help raise funds for such a worthy charity, whilst enjoying cycling with like-minded people and good friends.”

Thank you to Furniture News for supplying this article.